THE family of Holmfirth man Roy Irwin are predicting falling Guinness sales in the town, following his death at the age of 75.

Mr Irwin, of Cinderhills, was a well-known character and his liking for "the black stuff" was common knowledge in Holmfirth.

His daughter, Elizabeth Spikings, said: "He was a keen Guinness drinker. His hobbies were Guinness and talking to people.

"He was a typical Irishman - he liked his booze and his jokes.

"No matter how mundane the subject, he came up with something to make it interesting.

"There were several people close to him who helped him, who I know he'd like to thank: Dave Keenan, his care worker and his two neighbours.

"Dad was quite a showman and he approved of being made a fuss of."

A fuss was made on Friday , when a party was held after Mr Irwin's funeral at his local pub, the Shoulder of Mutton, in Dunford Road, Holmfirth.

He was popular at the pub and many years ago staff and customers clubbed together to buy him a nebuliser to help him cope with his bronchial asthma.

Mr Irwin, who worked as a millwright, suffered from the condition for many years, though he eventually died of lung cancer on November 19.

Mr Irwin had originated from Ireland and moved to London.

He moved to Holmfirth 12 years ago to be near to his daughter Elizabeth, who lives at Scholes.

Mr Irwin also had a son, who died many years ago.

Mr Irwin had three granddaughters, a grandson and two great-granddaughters.